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Hanna Rush, a second-year Master of Environmental Management (MEM) and Master of Business Administration (MBA) at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill's Kenan-Flagler School of Business concurrent degree student, recently shared insights into why she's pursuing concurrent degrees, advice for students considering the concurrent degree path and her favorite memory so far.

Why did you choose to pursue a concurrent degree with the MEM?

I chose the MEM/MBA concurrent degree program because it offers a unique combination of depth and breadth in both management and operational business competencies, equipping me to become a more impactful change-maker. The MEM program has given me a strong foundation in understanding sustainability from an ecological perspective, but I recognized the need to build my business acumen to effectively collaborate with professionals from non-science backgrounds. Through the MBA coursework and hands-on learning opportunities, I’m honing the skills to align sustainability initiatives with business objectives, creating profitable solutions that benefit both the environment and the organization’s bottom line.

What skills or experiences did you gain across the concurrent degree program that WILL BE beneficial in your professional life?

My goal is to work in corporate sustainability and the MBA has been instrumental in providing insight into the inner workings of corporate business, where profitability is paramount. I’m learning how to demonstrate the financial viability of sustainable business practices and effectively communicate their benefits in a way that resonates with business leaders, encouraging action and long-term impact.

What advice would you give to students considering a concurrent degree path or currently in the program?

If you’re considering the MEM/MBA concurrent degree path, start by identifying the skills and experiences you want to gain from your degree. Then, determine if the additional degree is essential to achieving those goals. I found this clarity by speaking with current MEM/MBA students, the admissions team and professionals on LinkedIn who held the roles I aspired to pursue after graduation.

What is your favorite memory from your time in the program?

One of my favorite memories is participating in the graduate student campout during my first year in the MEM program. I spent two nights in a tent with people I had only met a month earlier and they’ve since become some of my closest friends. There’s nothing like bonding through late-night dance parties and being woken up every two hours for check-ins. It’s an unforgettable experience that created lasting friendships.